Ortho Discounts for Dental Teams and Families
Dr. Amanda from Straight Smile Solutions discusses costs and pricing options for staff, families, and friends.

Comprehensive Financial Approach
● Orthodontic treatment involves a significant commitment of time and money.
● Addressing financial aspects of the orthodontic journey.
Pricing Structure:
● Refer to the office’s handbook and policies.
● Free preventative care and discounts on treatments, including lab fees.
● It is ideal for minor procedures and scheduling gaps.
Substantial Procedures (e.g., Orthodontic Treatments):
● Full-time employees with specific tenure:
● Upfront payment of ortho treatment lab fee (approx. $1900).
● Cover additional lab fees during treatment while employed.
● No case transfer if leaving the company.
● Responsibility for treatment completion.
● Encouraging commitment aligns with the office’s interests.
● Charges are applicable only during employment with the company.
Invisalign Partnership:
● Negotiate reduced lab fees for hitting the case threshold.
● Motivational incentive for team performance.
● Clear communication and tracking of eligible cases.
Part-Time Employees’ Benefits:
● Part-time employees receive a discount on the lab fee.
● Increases accessibility to orthodontic treatment.
Friends and Family:
● Offer a modest yet appealing discount.
● Flexibility in discount offers.
Streamlined Approach:
● Offer white-label aligners for simple cases.
● The pay-per-aligner model reduces overall costs.
Evolving Policies:
● Policies are subject to change; stay informed through open communication with staff.
Building Community and Well-being:
● Orthodontic treatment beyond aesthetics
● Fostering a sense of community and well-being
● Benefits extend to employees, friends, and family

Incentives for Active Engagement:
● Invisalign treatment offers reduced lab fees based on case numbers.
● Motivates staff to work together and potentially decrease treatment costs.

Consider the Bigger Picture:
● Orthodontic treatment is not just about aesthetics.
● Focus on creating a sense of well-being and shared values.

The outlined strategies underscore the importance of clear communication, commitment, and the practice’s best interests. Your practice and its members can foster successful treatment outcomes and enduring relationships by adhering to these guidelines.

Why You Shouldn’t Use JPG Screenshots for Ortho Starts

When it comes to your orthodontics and Invisalign cases, it’s hugely important to ensure you’re meeting standard of care for patients. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, often unknowingly. One such example is using JPG / JPEG screenshots of scans for intraoral images for Ortho Starts. But why is this? Well, we’ve outlined what you should and shouldn’t be doing for ortho starts as follows.
JPG Screenshots of Scans Are Not Standard of Care
If your patient has had a scan, it can be tempting to save time by just sending off a JPG/JPEG screenshot of the scan when submitting. However, this is not standard of care, as there is a lot that can’t be seen from these screenshots – and this could lead to inaccurate treatment plans. For example, you can’t see palatal anatomy, the color will be different, the tissue and root scalloping may be unclear, the freedom under the tongue and lips, and so on.
Of course, creating an inaccurate treatment plan can result in the patient being given an unsuitable treatment. In turn, this can require revisions and can potentially even result in patients submitting complaints.
Always Take a Full Set of Intraoral Photos
Rather than taking JPG/JPEG screenshots, you should always take a full set of intraoral photos where you can see all of the molars on both the top and bottom, the first molars, and the buccal shots. That’s why we always require our A La Carte doctors to provide a full set of intraoral photos in our consulting sessions to ensure they’re creating the optimal treatment plan.
The easiest way to take these intraoral photos for Invisalign is to use a mobile phone with a high-quality camera and the Invisalign Photo Uploader. This is HIPAA compliant and the photos go directly to your Invisalign portal. Of course, make sure that your phone is HIPAA compliant by getting help from a HIPAA compliant first.
If you need further support, our Straight Smile Solutions doctors can use our screenshot guide for free – or otherwise, feel free to download it from our store to help with your ortho starts.

Using Batch Printing and Alternative Custom Aligners

Have you been looking to use alternative brands for your patients’ custom aligners? In many cases, finding new ways to reduce lab fees can seem tricky – but if you want to take things a step further, white label aligners could be a good option. And, with the right approach, you can potentially save a good sum of money through batch printing approaches – provided that you’ve started with a great team of custom aligner designers.
Using Batch Printing to Reduce Fees for White Label Aligners
If you’re planning to outsource your custom aligner manufacturing and designing, batch printing can be an option to consider to save money – although it’s often not offered by the white label companies directly. As such, you’ll often have to ask for it.
When batch printing, it’s advisable to print a proportion of the case’s aligners – for example, five upper and lower aligners on a ten-aligner case. By harnessing batch printing, you can save a surprising sum of money and significantly reduce lab fees. If the first batch goes well, you can potentially look at ordering the next batch after.
However, don’t purchase all of the aligners upfront, as if things don’t progress as well as you had hoped, you may end up wasting money. Aligner tracking can be a good option here to ensure the cases don’t go off track. Luckily, most companies will offer revisions for free.
It’s worth noting, though, that for cases requiring a great deal of aligners (i.e., more than 20), Invisalign Comprehensive might be comparably priced or even more affordable.
If you decide to use batch printing to reduce lab and aligner fees, though, make sure you start with a good designer and manufacturer. Always ask key questions to ensure quality results, such as the trimming process and the manufacturing material. Our preferred material is FLX, generally.
What Companies Should I Use for White Label Aligners?
If you’d like to begin making your own custom white label aligners but don’t know where to start, contact our team here at Straight Smile Solutions, and we’d be glad to let you know the designers and manufacturers we personally have worked with.

Should an Orthodontist Treat a Patient who Cries
Dr. Amanda from Straight Smile Solutions. Today, let’s delve into a crucial query that concerns dentists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists working with children: “Are you wondering if it’s the right moment to address a dental problem when your patient is feeling unhappy, crying, or a bit uncooperative?”

Patient Readiness and Timing:
● Treating a dental issue isn’t an emergency, even if it’s orthodontic. Cosmetic and functional improvements are important, but patient readiness is equally vital.
● Starting a case at the right time is pivotal. Rushing into treatment when a patient is unmanageable due to behavioral or medical factors can lead to suboptimal outcomes.
● Consider the age and individual growth patterns of the child. Phase 1 treatment should be differentiated based on the patient’s age, gender, and needs.
● Parental desires for early treatment must be balanced with the patient’s readiness. Convenience should never override the patient’s well-being.
Transparency and Communication:
● Transparency is the cornerstone of successful treatment. If you’re considering starting a borderline case, communicate openly with parents about the challenges and potential extended treatment duration.
● Discuss the possibility of accommodating appointments during less busy hours to ensure an environment that suits the patient’s needs.
● Written agreements are essential when making special arrangements. These help avoid misunderstandings and establish a clear framework for treatment expectations.
Team Alignment and Collaboration:
● A united team approach is non-negotiable. All members must align with the treatment plan, including the family, patient, and staff.
● Taking on cases your staff isn’t equipped to handle can lead to detrimental outcomes. Assess the capabilities of your team before committing to complex cases.
● Collaborate closely with parents to address compliance issues. While you can provide alternatives, parental management of the child’s behavior is a shared responsibility.
Empowering Parents and Setting Boundaries:
● Educate parents about their role in managing compliance. Removable treatment options with shorter appointments can be more manageable for certain cases.
● While you can offer guidance, it’s important to establish that parental management is outside your scope of responsibility.
Treatment Discontinuation and Final Decision:
● The doctor has the ultimate authority in deciding whether to continue or discontinue treatment. This decision can be made by either the parent or the doctor at any point.
● Clearly outline the process for discontinuation and associated costs from the outset to prevent confusion later on.
Prioritizing Stress-Free Treatment:
● The well-being of everyone involved, including the patient, should be the priority throughout the treatment journey.
● A successful outcome hinges on factors like patient readiness, effective communication, and the collaborative efforts of the entire team.
Conclusion
Treating a dental issue in an unhappy or uncooperative child requires careful consideration. The readiness of the patient, transparent communication with parents, team alignment, and a clear treatment approach are all pivotal aspects. By working together, you can ensure that dental treatment for children is effective and a positive experience for everyone involved.

In some scenarios, you get presented with a client whose case is anything but straightforward – and Class III compromised camouflage cases represent this perfectly. But how do you come up with an orthodontics treatment plan for Class III cases with camouflage orthodontics? Well, today’s guide can help.
What are Camouflaged Orthodontics Cases?
First, let’s briefly clarify what a camouflaged case is. In camouflaged treatment plans, there is usually an issue with the jaw bones directly, and rather than going down the route of full jaw surgery, the patient would prefer to move the teeth instead to improve the appearance and fix the bite (without necessarily tackling the root cause of the problem).
Tackling Class III Cases with Camouflage Orthodontics
In many cases, tackling class III cases requires extracting lower 8s or lower incisors, sequential distalization, jaw surgery, or lower IPR. This decision should always be based on the bone positioning (shown with a CEPH) and the angulations of the teeth.
Depending on the nature of the case, lower sequential distalization may be effective if you need to retain the angle of the incisor. Lower IPR may also be possible in some cases.
Don’t forget, if there’s any chance the patient will continue to grow, make sure you’ve expressed this very clearly and have signed recognition from the patient of the fact that they may outgrow the treatment provided now.
It’s also vital to let the patient know that while you’re trying to fix the bite, since this is a compromised camouflaged case, it’s not the perfect solution; make sure you get the patient to sign a compromise form recognizing the limitations of this treatment, too.

Why I Don’t Normally Adjust Midlines on a First Invisalign Clincheck

Invisalign 6.0 introduces a remarkable ” smile ” feature to address midline considerations effectively. This feature stands out as a unique offering within the Invisalign brand.

Importance of Cautious Midline Adjustments:

• It is advised not to make significant midline adjustments during the initial ClinCheck, especially with aligner systems like Invisalign.
• The rationale behind this guideline becomes clear when delving into the functionalities of the “smile” feature.

Understanding the “Smile” Feature:

• The “smile” feature integrates the “in-face” feature with the Invisalign practice app and iTero scans.
• Previous videos provide insight into the “in-face” feature, aiding viewers in understanding this integration.
• By merging wide smile photos and iTero scans, an AI-powered preview of midlines, gums, tooth positions, and more is generated within the ClinCheck.

Implications for Treatment Progress:

• The “smile” feature offers an AI-assisted projection of the patient’s face with anticipated treatment progress.
• This projection aids in making informed decisions about midlines and other relevant factors, contributing to enhanced treatment planning.

Caution in Midline Alterations:

• Before accessing the “smile” feature, drastic midline changes are discouraged.
• Cases involving significant asymmetry or anteroposterior (AP) issues may be exceptions, but extreme midline alterations, even down to millimeter-level interproximal reduction (IPR), should be avoided.

Focus on Comprehensive Cases:

• The feature primarily targets comprehensive cases, addressing midline, periodontal, AP, transverse, vertical, and occlusal concerns.
• Alternative aligner systems might be suitable for less complex cases, yet operating within a comprehensive treatment plan is recommended.

Integration for Better Outcomes:

• Incorporating the “smile” feature into the workflow is highly recommended, especially for moderate or light cases.
• Referencing visual assessments can lead to unpredictable outcomes, additional refinements, and patient dissatisfaction.

Avoiding Complications:

• Overlooking midline issues can lead to complications, underscoring the significance of the “smile” feature.
• The feature minimizes risks and enhances treatment predictability, ensuring patient satisfaction.

Striving for Comprehensive Planning:

• Aligner systems, notably Invisalign 6.0, necessitate meticulous midline considerations.
• Leveraging advanced features, such as the “smile” feature, aligns with the goal of comprehensive planning and execution.

Conclusion

• Midline factors should be considered when working with aligner systems, especially Invisalign 6.0.
  • Drastic midline changes in the initial ClinCheck should be avoided, while the “smile” feature should be embraced for enhanced treatment progress projection.
  • A higher level of predictability can be achieved through comprehensive planning and the utilization of advanced features, resulting in satisfied patients.

Advanced Invisalign with MA
In mandibular advancement (MA), a few intriguing peculiarities defy conventional teachings, unveiling a path less traveled for exceptional results.

Defying Norms and Embracing Divergence
● Post-MA outcomes often stray from conventional expectations.
● Anticipated vs. actual results exhibit a noticeable disparity.
● An unconventional approach yields remarkable results by diverging from the predicted trajectory.
Distinctive Approach: Twin Blocks vs. ClinCheck AI
● The usage of twin blocks introduces unique elements to MA.
● An alternative approach requires attentive compliance, particularly with young patients.
● In contrast with ClinCheck, AI’s realism highlights divergence due to distinctive methodologies.
Skepticism in the Face of ClinCheck and MA Union
● Skepticism arises due to ClinCheck’s sole focus on teeth alignment.
● Reality encompasses broader factors, leading to unaccounted deviations.
● The transparent approach contrasts with the conventional process by embracing complexities.
Transition Phase: A Nexus of Deviation
● Active mandibular advancement ends up in a transition phase.
● ClinCheck model deviations become prominent at this juncture.
● Roadmap shift in the “hash section” prompts unexpected outcomes, like posterior open bites.
Innovative Strategies Arising from Divergence
● Divergence from expected outcomes catalyzes inventive responses.
● “Sloppy bonded retainers” emerge as cost-effective and efficient solutions.
● Leveraging Invisalign for targeted tray creation and bite alignment proves successful.
Transparency and Patient Resonance
● The candid approach acknowledges the inherent complexities of MA.
● Patients respond to honesty and innovative techniques.
● Instilled confidence paves the way for desired outcomes.
Defying Convention for Exceptional Excellence
● The unconventional approach reflects a dedication to superior outcomes.
● Skepticism towards ClinCheck spurs the development of alternative strategies.
● Transparency, innovation, and commitment ensure remarkable case results.
Summary
Ultimately, the journey through mandibular advancement demonstrates that departing from the conventional path can lead to exceptional outcomes. Divergence from predicted trajectories prompts innovative solutions that address the complexities of real-world scenarios. By embracing these nuances and challenges, orthodontists can instill confidence in their patients while achieving remarkable success.

Reading Your Invisalign ClinCheck for VPC and Passive Invisalign Aligners

Have you been looking to learn more about how to use Invisalign ClinCheck? In many cases, getting started with ClinCheck can seem a bit tricky, but this isn’t that tough if you know some of the key principles.

So, once you’ve mastered the basics of Phase 1 orthodontics and straight wire ortho, learning how to use aligners successfully with Invisalign ClinCheck can really help streamline the process and improve your cases.

When it comes to orthodontics and clear aligner cases, understanding and using the ClinCheck requires you to first be able to read them – much like reading a map.

There are a few common things to watch for on your Invisalign ClinChecks:

• Blue refers to VPC or overcorrection aligners (ideally, remove these from your default preferences unless advised by a professional orthodontist, such as our experts at Straight Smile Solutions). Note that a Blue hash refers to MA
• Grey denotes passive aligners. These are usually used alongside regular aligners as part of a patient’s treatment plan. Note that a grey hash refers to a bite jump (which can be a little unpredictable sometimes)
• Aligners that randomly stop on the ClinCheck mean you’ll only get a limited number of aligners. We recommend avoiding this approach; always try to ensure you have dual arch treatment plans rather than a single arch approach.

Always check the lowers on the Invisalign ClinCheck before you proceed. If you’re at all unsure, try to hover your mouse over the ClinCheck for a direct explanation (or contact us, and we’ll do our best to help out).

What is Camouflage Orthodontic Treatment?

Have you ever wondered what a camouflage orthodontic treatment plan might be? In many cases, finishing cases normally might not be possible for a myriad of reasons, such as when the perfect result may not be easily attainable. In these scenarios, camouflage orthodontic treatments might help – but what actually are they?
What are Camouflage Orthodontic Treatment Plans?
Camouflage orthodontic treatment plans are generally used when a perfect treatment is not possible, often due to physiological limitations (e.g. an uneven jaw shape) or financial reasons. In general, a camouflage case results in pretty good results, but it won’t be quite as perfect as the optimal treatment plan would have given.
Why Finishing Cases with Camouflage Orthodontics Might Be Needed
There are numerous reasons camouflage might be needed. These include:
– Patients don’t want to undergo a specific treatment plan
– There is a discrepancy that needs treatment to make the teeth look straight
– The patient cannot afford jaw surgery to fix the problem at the source
In the above cases, finishing cases with camouflage treatment plans won’t be ideal, but it can help to hide the problem. In the case of jaw issues, for example, a treatment plan may help mask issues with the tooth alignment, but the jaw shape may still be off.
Are Camouflage Orthodontic Treatments Always Suitable?
It’s important to clarify that not every case will be a candidate for camouflage orthodontic treatment. For example, a smaller lower jaw may be less suited to camouflage since you’ll need to remove teeth from the upper jaw and/or slide the teeth back. This can have many impacts on airways or tongue space, so it may not always be suitable or ideal for Class II and Class III cases and the like.
If you’re unsure whether camouflage orthodontics could be suitable anymore, contact a professional orthodontist for specific case-by-case support.

Invisalign Attachments- Changing them Out

Invisalign attachments play a vital role in orthodontic treatment, enhancing the effectiveness and predictability of the aligner system.

Here are key points to consider:

● Accessing Invisalign Channel: To explore the comprehensive Invisalign content, head to the YouTube channel “Straight Smile Solutions.” With over 1600 videos, this dedicated channel offers information on Invisalign treatment.
● Recommended Preparations: Prioritize learning foundational concepts before diving into attachments. Familiarize yourself with Straight Wire Braces, Phase One Appliances, and Functional Appliances for a well-rounded understanding.
● Sequencing is Key: Sequential learning is crucial. Start with Straight Wire and Phase One methods, followed by aligner treatments. This order aligns with established orthodontic education patterns.
● Beneficial Alignment Tools: Trust Invisalign’s AI-powered attachment recommendations, especially for routine cases. This system efficiently predicts movement, ensuring optimal results.
● Challenging Cases: For complex cases involving anterior-posterior, class two/class three issues, deep bites, open bites, transverse issues, or significant crowding/spacing, additional refinement stages may be required. Attachments may need customization.
● Attachment Preferences: Avoid unnecessary preferences in your aligner setup. Clear preferences for accurate tracking and predictable results. Removing engine training-related preferences is essential to prevent complicating cases.
● Attachment Size and Type: Assess each case’s needs. Attachments should be selected based on AI recommendations, focusing on significant movements like rotations, extrusions, and torquing. Larger attachments may be beneficial.
● Black and Blue Dots: Check for “black and blue dots” indicating challenging movements. Address these movements with proper attachment placement, improving predictability.
● Refinement and Lateral Cases: Prioritize attachment application for challenging refinements and lateral movements. This step minimizes tracking issues and enhances treatment effectiveness.
● Attachment less Aligners: Avoid starting cases without attachments, especially anterior attachmentless aligners. Such cases may lead to unpredictability, extended treatment times, and patient dissatisfaction.
● Clear Aligner Craft: Consider using Clear Aligner Craft for attachmentless cases. The higher trim line and firmer material could improve success rates.
Summary
Invisalign attachments are a valuable tool to ensure efficient and successful orthodontic outcomes. Follow the recommended learning sequence, trust the AI-powered suggestions, and customize attachments for complex cases. By prioritizing attachment placement and focusing on predictability, orthodontists can deliver exceptional results through Invisalign treatment.